James McGowan

1. What are you currently doing with your life?

Trying to clothe the nation with PAEZ Shoes! Last summer we set up PAEZ UK Limited which is a franchise of an Argentine company. PAEZ are their own style of shoe although they are very similar to the Espadrille of old. Before 2007 they didn't exist and so are an entirely new experience for the world to enjoy! PAEZ are cool, cheap, comfy, fashionable and fun. Check us out on line and around the London Markets this summer!

2. What does this involve on a day-to-day basis?

Taking and placing orders, designing flyers and posters, filling out application forms, speaking with our partners in Argentina, approaching new shops and buyers, writing press releases, updating our accounts... plenty of things!

3. What did you do before this and how long did you do it for?

I was working for a Construction and Logistics company out in Dubai and Afghanistan. The project lasted a year and so did I...

4. How long have you dreamt of doing what you are doing now?

I have always wanted to have my own project but I never thought it would be in the shoe business! Giving something a try is what is all about. No one can fault you for doing so.

5. What was your moment of truth?

When my Doug (my partner) asked me if I wanted in!

6. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

It was something we had mentioned a few years ago. Doug was living out in Argentina last year and it was then that he decided to really give it a push. Whilst out there he sorted the initial stages, gave me a call out and here we are: PAEZ UK Limited!

7. How did you fund it?

The tax haven that is Dubai...!

8. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

Not really sure because it is all still happening. Everything is a huge teething process where each day we discover another hurdle or a better and improved way of working things through. If i had to say something then i guess the pressure of knowing whether or not we are doing enough to ensure that we are maximizing our exposure and getting the shoes out there.

9. What is the best thing about making this happen?

The lessons you learn along the way.

10. What is the best advice you have ever received?

If you don't like your life, change it.

11. What advice would you give to other people who want to do something similar?

Just go for it! There's nothing wrong with starting again.

12. What resources have you found really useful?

People you meet along the way.

13. What else do you want to share?

Check us out at our website www.paezespadrilles.co.uk where you can see our the current UK stock. Anything else give either Doug or myself a call on 07506734709 / 07876231312 respectively!